A survey by the IAM has revealed that the public is in favour of an increase in the number of 20mph speed limits

The survey, which comprised 4,000 people, showed that 43 percent of would like to see 20mph limits around schools. Another 38 percent wanted to see roads around parks and shops given the same treatment.

People were divided about whether they'd like to see a 20mph limit outside their own home - 43 percent were in favour, 39 percent were against. Three quarters said they would not want 20mph to be the default limit in built-up areas.

To uphold the limit, 40 percent of people thought that signs and police enforcement was the way to go. Only 20 percent were in favour of cameras and 21 percent wanted a combination of measures such as road humps and cameras.

Commenting on the survey, the IAM's head of road safety said, "The IAM supports the selective use of 20mph speed limits where there is clear evidence that the risk of casualties will be reduced. But blanket 20mph speed limits or limits at inappropriate sites risk widespread disregard by drivers who do not recognise a necessity for them. Consultation with, and buy-in from, local people here is essential".

John Lambert - 16 Aug 2011